Did you know your skin is the largest organ of the body? It does a lot more than cover your muscles and bones. It protects you from the elements, helps regulate your body temperature, and even helps produce certain vitamins and minerals your body needs.
Like all your organs, you must care for your skin to keep it healthy and functioning properly. The added benefit is that it will look better, too!
Keep reading to discover a few top tips from our dermatology and skin health department about keeping your skin healthy, when you’ll want to see a dermatologist, and how to make an appointment with the East Adams Rural Healthcare team.
5 Tips for Healthy Skin
There are a lot of so-called skincare experts who will try to sell you complicated and expensive skincare routines. The truth is, keeping skin healthy doesn’t have to require a lot of your time or your money. Here are five simple steps you can incorporate into your daily life to help keep your skin looking and feeling healthier.
Always Wear Sunscreen
Sun exposure causes premature aging along with more serious concerns like skin cancer. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a factor of 30 or higher every day. While we might have a lot of cloud cover in Adams County, you should still apply sunscreen on cloudy days. Reapply throughout the day, especially if you are swimming or sweating.
Cleanse Often, But Gently
Wash your face in the morning and night to remove dirt, oil, and sweat, but do it gently. Scrubbing can irritate the skin, so you should use gentle movements and gentle cleansers. Lukewarm water and a mild cleanser will do the job.
Moisturize Daily
Hydration is one of the most important factors in skin health. Apply a moisturizer daily to help your skin retain moisture, keeping it plump and supple. Choose a moisturizer that’s best suited for your skin type. If you have oily skin, you might want a lighter moisturizer, while thicker moisturizers can be better for dry skin.
Lifestyle Choices Matter
What you put into your body will affect your skin. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will feed your skin with vital nutrients so it stays healthy. You’ll also want to get plenty of sleep and manage your stress levels, which can greatly impact your skin’s health.
Stop Smoking
There are many reasons to stop smoking, but you can add skin health to that list. Smoking damages your skin’s elasticity and contributes to developing wrinkles. It can also make certain skin conditions, like psoriasis, worse. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health, including the health of your skin.
When to See a Dermatologist
While following the tips above can keep your skin healthy, there are times when you’ll want to see a dermatologist. Here are some signs that it’s time to schedule an appointment:
Suspicious Skin Changes
Any changes in a mole or birthmark, like a change in size, shape, or color, could be a sign of skin cancer. Get these changes checked by a dermatologist immediately, as early detection can lead to more successful treatment outcomes.
Persistent Rashes
Rashes that don’t go away with over-the-counter treatments or feel painful could indicate skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment options.
Persistent Acne
Acne can be a frustrating problem, but it’s not one you have to live with. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t working, a dermatologist can develop a treatment plan to help you get your acne under control and prevent scarring.
Dermatologists can also help with skin health concerns like warts, moles, and autoimmune skin diseases. They can also help with cosmetic skin concerns like wrinkles and unwanted hair.
Schedule Your Dermatology and Skin Health Appointment
Whether you are concerned about a suspicious mole, need help managing chronic skin conditions, or are interested in cosmetic treatments, we can help. Our experienced dermatologists offer comprehensive care for various skin conditions, from acne to eczema to skin cancer.
Like every EARH team member, they are committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to all patients. Contact our dermatology department to schedule an appointment today.
